後継(こうけい)

Composed of 後(こう) (after/behind) + 継(けい) (succeed/inherit). Refers to the continuation of a role, position, or tradition through a new person or entity.

Common collocations

• 後継者(こうけいしゃ): successor (person)
• 後継者(こうけいしゃ)不足(ぶそく): shortage of successors
• 後継(こうけい)機(き): successor model (of a product/aircraft)
• 後継(こうけい)問題(もんだい): succession issue
• 後継(こうけい)を育(そだ)てる: to train a successor

Similar words

• 後任(こうにん): successor (to a specific position) — focuses on the person filling a vacated role
• 跡継(あとつ)ぎ: heir, successor — often used for family businesses or hereditary roles
• 継承(けいしょう): succession, inheritance — more formal; emphasizes the act of inheriting traditions, rights, or property

Usage

後継者(こうけいしゃ)不足(ぶそく) (successor shortage) is a major social issue in Japan, affecting traditional crafts, family farms, and small businesses as younger generations move to cities.